What to Eat in New York City: 18 Iconic Dishes You Must Try

New York City is a food lover’s paradise, with a dizzying array of iconic dishes and street foods to try. Here’s an outline of some must-eat foods that should be on your NYC food bucket list. They sure are on mine!

Wondering what to eat in New York City? From iconic bagels and pizza to globally inspired dishes like dim sum, falafel, and ramen, NYC offers a food adventure at every corner. Whether it’s street food, deli classics, or trendy desserts like the cronut, this guide has all the must-try eats to savor the city’s flavors. 

Are you planning your trip to NYC last minute?

Let me help you!
Here you will find at a glance my favorite activities, tours, hotels and more.
Everything you will need to make this unforgettable!

Top Activities and Tours in NYC:
1. New York Summit One Vanderbilt Experience
2. 9/11 Memorial and Museum
3. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
4. American Museum of Natural History
5. New York CityPass
6. Downtown and Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

Click to search the best (updated) deals to rent a car!

Our Favorite Hotels in NYC:
1. The Ritz Carlton
2. The Knickerbocker
3. 1Hotel Central Park
4. Lotte New York Palace
5. Pod 39

New York City isn’t just the city that never sleeps—it’s the city that never stops eating!
With its vibrant mix of cultures, iconic landmarks, and bustling streets, NYC is a paradise for food lovers. 

From the quintessential bagel to the perfect slice of pizza, the city’s dining scene offers something for every taste. 

Whether you’re craving a towering pastrami sandwich from Katz’s Delicatessen, a street-side pretzel, or the indulgent sweetness of a New York-style cheesecake, the Big Apple delivers iconic eats and hidden gems in every borough.

Beyond the classics, the city’s culinary diversity shines through with soul-warming ramen, delicate dim sum, and globally inspired street food. 

Looking for innovative twists? Don’t miss creations like the cronut or over-the-top lobster rolls!

I always love to try new foods and thanks to the fact that I have family and friends living in NYC I’ve been able to find quite a few hidden gems. Hopefully you’ll enjoy the Big Apple food just as much as I do!

So let me help you navigate what to eat in New York City, without breaking the bank and especially avoiding the sadly many tourist traps waiting for travelers!

Bagels in NYC: Why Breakfast Will Never Be the Same

NYC food bucket list  would be complete without bagels.
A quintessential NYC breakfast staple. 

What makes them special? The city’s water, combined with a time-honored boiling and baking technique, creates the perfect chewy texture with a glossy crust.

I know many don’t get it but it’s the same for us in Naples!
When people tell me that there are so many types of pizza in Italy but none are quite like the authentic Neapolitan one, that’s what I say.
It’s the water, our technique, our tomatoes… It really does make a difference!

You also have the option to book a food tour to try the different New York food staples. Including bagels.
One of  my favorites is this walking tour through Midtown and Central Park. The bagels and pastrami you’ll eat are delicious!
Click here to check it out!

What to Try

A classic New York bagel with lox and cream cheese is the gold standard.
You can also add toppings like red onions, capers, and tomatoes for extra flavor. 

If you’re not into lox, other popular choices include scallion cream cheese, egg, or butter.
Me? I prefer the classic version!

Street Food Version

Bagels are everywhere in New York! 

You can grab a fresh bagel from any local deli or food cart, often with plenty of topping options. 

For those on the go, a plain or everything bagel with cream cheese is a simple, satisfying choice. And you won’t break the bank, which is a nice bonus.

Where to Find NYC’s Best Bagels

Some bagel shops have reached iconic status, thanks to their quality and long history. Here are a few must-visit spots:

• Russ & Daughters (Lower East Side): Known for their traditional bagels and gourmet lox pairings.
• Ess-a-Bagel (Midtown and Gramercy): Famous for oversized bagels with generous toppings.
• Tompkins Square Bagels (East Village): Offers creative cream cheese options, including seasonal flavors.
• Murray’s Bagels (Greenwich Village): A local favorite for its chewy texture and no-toasting policy to preserve freshness.
• Absolute Bagels (Upper West Side): Tucked away but beloved for its authentic taste and affordable prices.

Whether you’re enjoying your bagel at a cozy deli or munching one on a scorching hot summer trip to New York, this classic is the perfect way to start any day in the Big Apple!

NYC Pizza Slices: Thin, Crispy, and Absolutely Iconic

When thinking about what to eat in NYC, pizza is at the top of the list.
Again, a bit like my Naples.
Is this why I feel so connected to New York City?

NYC-style pizza is more than food; it’s a cultural icon. 

Known for its thin, crispy crust and simple yet delicious toppings, a slice in the city is a must-have experience!

What to Try

The quintessential NYC slice is thin, foldable, and topped with mozzarella and tomato sauce. Perfect for eating on the go.
We have a similar option here, it’s Pizza a Portafoglio in Naples. Hence why it felt familiar to us!

Classic options like Margherita or pepperoni dominate menus, but adventurous eaters can find unique combinations too.

Let me also add here that Pepperoni is not an Italian type of pizza. It’s exclusively American.
Aldo loves spicy food and he wasn’t disappointed!
To be honest he was super curious about the New York pepperoni pizza, because here in Italy it’s something we don’t have!

Those of you who love pizza just like me and Al should give the pizza tour bus a try.
You’ll love it! This eating tour will show you the best pizzerias, as well as giving you the chance to taste 4 different pizzas.
… and gosh. It’s a lot of fun!
You can click here to check it out!

Local Favorite

For something different, try a thick, square slice at Prince Street Pizza.
Known for its spicy pepperoni and satisfying crunch, it’s a local favorite for those who love bold flavors.
In Italy we know this as “pizza al taglio“.

Where to Find NYC’s Best Pizza

Here’s a list of some of the city’s most iconic and beloved pizzerias:

• Joe’s Pizza (Greenwich Village): An institution for classic slices that locals and tourists rave about. Also my uncle loves it because it’s on Carmine street and his name is Carmine, of course!
• Di Fara Pizza (Midwood, Brooklyn): Renowned for its hand-crafted pies and use of imported ingredients from Italy.
• Prince Street Pizza (Nolita): Famous for its thick, square Sicilian slices loaded with spicy pepperoni.
• John’s of Bleecker Street (West Village): Known for its coal-fired brick oven pies with a perfectly charred crust.
• Lucali (Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn): A neighborhood favorite offering a cozy atmosphere and thin-crust perfection.
• Artichoke Basille’s Pizza (Various Locations): Famous for its creamy artichoke pizza and other creative slices.
• Lombardi’s (Nolita): America’s first pizzeria, serving traditional coal-oven pizzas since 1905.

Whether you’re grabbing a slice on the go or sitting down for a full pie, NYC’s pizza is a must-eat!

Cheesecake Dreams: NYC’s Sweetest Slice of Heaven

When it comes to indulgent desserts, New York-style cheesecake is in a league of its own. Known for its dense, creamy texture and rich flavor, this iconic treat is the perfect way to end a meal or enjoy as a standalone indulgence.

In case you’re visiting Greenwich Village and you’re feeling adventurous, let me suggest a food tour!

There’s one that will let you eat literally a ton of local food, including NYC cheesecake, chocolates and cookies. A tour guide will show you all about Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park… while you eat. A lot.
Me and Al had a ton of fun and it was filled with cultural references as well as interesting things we didn’t know about New York. 

I encourage you to check it out because it’s one of the best we’ve been to!
You can click here to read all about the food stops and tour details.

What to Try

The classic version is served plain, letting the velvety cream cheese and buttery graham cracker crust shine. 

For those seeking variety, some spots offer cheesecakes topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or seasonal flavors.
The seasonal ones are absolutely our favorite, strawberries and blueberries are in our top 3!

Fun Fact

New York-style cheesecake stands apart because it uses heavy cream or sour cream to create its ultra-creamy texture. 

It’s baked at a high temperature for a short time, then slowly cooled to prevent cracking.

Where to Find NYC’s Best Cheesecake

Here are some of the most popular spots for authentic New York-style cheesecake:

• Junior’s (Brooklyn and Manhattan): The undisputed king of NYC cheesecake, known for its smooth, rich texture and iconic status since 1950.
• Eileen’s Special Cheesecake (SoHo): Offers mini cheesecakes in a variety of classic and seasonal flavors.
• Veniero’s Pasticceria (East Village): A historic Italian bakery offering a creamy, slightly lighter take on the classic.
• Ladybird Bakery (formerly known as Two Little Red Hens, Upper East Side): This bakery is beloved for its dense, flavorful cheesecakes, including a chocolate variation.
• Magnolia Bakery (Multiple Locations): Known for its banana pudding, but their cheesecakes also shine with classic and fruit-topped options.
• S&S Cheesecake (Bronx): A hidden gem often considered one of the best for its authentic old-school recipe.

Whether you prefer your cheesecake plain or loaded with toppings, this NYC classic is a must-try dessert that perfectly captures the city’s culinary charm!

Hot Dogs on the Go: NYC’s Savory Street Food King

A visit to New York City isn’t complete without indulging in a classic hot dog.
Affordable, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, NYC hot dogs are an iconic street food that have become a cultural staple. 

My mom and dad still remember their first, delicious hot dog on their New York City honeymoon, at Nathan’s Famous, where Uncle Carmine brought them. To taste the “authentic New York”.
Yes, it’s that iconic!

Whether you’re exploring the city or visiting a park, a quick bite from a hot dog stand is a New York experience you just can’t say no to.

Many food tours feel like they’re too posh to offer a simple hot dog to their customers. Hence why I particularly like this one.
Among other things, it will let you have an authentic NYC experience by strolling through Central Park with your own, delicious hot dog. That’s super local, you know!
Click here to check it out, it includes other tastings and a sightseeing experience!

What to Try

For the ultimate NYC hot dog experience, start with a classic dog from Gray’s Papaya, famous for its perfectly grilled franks paired with a papaya drink. 

Alternatively, head to Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island, a historic spot renowned for its legendary dogs and annual hot dog eating contest.

Mom and dad swear by Nathan’s Famous in Coney Island. Yet me and Aldo loved the Gray’s Papaya hot dogs. I guess we’ll have to visit again to see who wins!

Where to Find NYC’s Best Hot Dogs

Here’s a list of the most iconic and popular places to grab a hot dog in New York City:

• Gray’s Papaya (Upper West Side): Known for its “Recession Special” combo of hot dogs and a tropical drink. (This is by far Aldo’s absolute favorite hot dog joint in NYC!)
• Nathan’s Famous (Coney Island): The birthplace of the hot dog craze and a must-visit for its historical significance.
• Papaya King (Upper East Side): Credited with pioneering the hot dog and tropical drink pairing, a favorite since 1932.
• Crif Dogs (East Village): Famous for its creative, gourmet hot dog options, like bacon-wrapped franks.
• Shake Shack (Madison Square Park and other locations): While better known for burgers, their Shack-cago Dog is a gourmet take on the classic.

Whether you go for a traditional hot dog or one with gourmet toppings, this street food favorite is a bite of NYC history you won’t want to miss.
It can also be a great lunch on a budget while you explore New York!

Pastrami on Rye: The Deli Sandwich of Your NYC Dreams

A sandwich so iconic it’s practically synonymous with New York City, pastrami on rye is a must-try for anyone visiting the Big Apple. 

This deli classic features tender, smoky pastrami stacked high on slices of fresh rye bread, often paired with mustard for the perfect tangy kick.

There’s even a food tour that makes it a NYC staple. Teaching people its cultural importance and how important it is in the Lower East Side. This food and history tour also includes tastes of local cheese, hand-rolled bagels, pickles and dumplings.
Click here to check it out.

What to Try

Head to Katz’s Delicatessen, arguably the most famous spot for pastrami on rye.
Their pastrami is hand-carved to order and piled high, creating a sandwich that’s as much an experience as it is a meal.

Where to Find NYC’s Best Pastrami on Rye

Here’s a roundup of the most popular places to enjoy this classic sandwich:

•     Katz’s Delicatessen (Lower East Side): A legendary NYC institution known for its generous portions and melt-in-your-mouth pastrami.
•     2nd Ave Deli (Kips Bay and Upper East Side): Another historic spot, offering a kosher version of the pastrami on rye with a side of tradition.
•     Carnegie Deli (Pop-Ups & Nationwide Delivery): Though the physical location closed, this iconic name lives on through pop-ups and delivery.
•     Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner (Murray Hill): Open 24/7, Sarge’s is a favorite for its hefty sandwiches and old-school deli vibes.
•     Pastrami Queen (Upper East Side): Known for its perfectly spiced pastrami and classic deli ambiance.
•     Frankel’s Delicatessen (Greenpoint, Brooklyn): A modern take on the classic deli, offering expertly made pastrami sandwiches in a hip setting.
•     Liebman’s Deli (Riverdale, Bronx): A hidden gem serving authentic Jewish deli fare, including a standout pastrami on rye.

Each bite of pastrami on rye tells a story of NYC’s rich immigrant history, making it more than just a sandwich—it’s a taste of the city’s soul!

Salty and Soft: The Pretzels That Make NYC Strolls Sweeter

When you think of what to eat in New York City, the soft, salty pretzel from a street vendor is one of the most iconic snacks. 

Affordable, portable, and perfect for munching while exploring, these warm, doughy treats are a quintessential part of the NYC experience. At least for me.
We have nothing like the NYC pretzels in Italy!

There’s also a very interesting food and cultural tour that explores Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights, which added a pretzel stop!
Clear sign of the fact that this is one of the NYC bucket list foods.
You can check it out by clicking here. 

What to Try

A classic New York pretzel is oversized, soft inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and generously sprinkled with coarse salt. 

Grab one fresh from a street cart and enjoy it plain or with mustard for a tangy kick.

I prefer the plain one for two reasons. The first being that… I can’t eat mustard.
The second is that I just love the coarse salt on the top, in my opinion it’s the best thing about pretzels!

Where to Find NYC’s Best Pretzels

While street vendors are the most common source, there are a few standout places offering some of the best pretzels in the city:

• Sigmund’s Pretzels (East Village): Known for artisan takes on the classic pretzel, with flavors like truffle cheddar or cinnamon sugar.
• The Standard Biergarten (Meatpacking District): Enjoy a German-style pretzel with a side of beer cheese in this lively spot.
• Cart Vendors at Central Park: Perfect for a stroll, these vendors serve fresh, classic NYC pretzels with just the right amount of salt. 
• Dominique Ansel Bakery (SoHo): Famous for inventive desserts, they occasionally offer a unique twist on the traditional pretzel.

Whether you grab one from a cart or indulge in a gourmet version, NYC pretzels are the perfect combination of convenience and comfort food while exploring the city.
In case you’re visiting New York on a budget, they can be the perfect light lunch for just a few dollars!

Dim Sum and Dumplings: A Bite-Sized Tour of NYC Chinatown

New York City’s Chinatown is a treasure trove of authentic and delicious eats, and two of the must-try dishes are dim sum and soup dumplings. 

I always make sure to visit Chinatown because they have the best food for less.
Not just in  New York! I happened to find the same in London’s Soho and Chinatown eateries. Delicious food!

Whether you’re sampling a variety of small plates or savoring the rich, flavorful broth inside a delicate dumpling, these dishes are a celebration of Chinese culinary heritage.

They even have a semi-dedicated Chinatown food tour.
It will walk you through the best dumplings and noodles in Chinatown and also the yummy Italian-American dishes in Little Italy. We loved it!
Check it out by clicking here. 

What to Try

• Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao): These delicate dumplings are filled with savory broth and tender meat, best enjoyed fresh and steaming. Beware: they will burn your tongue if you’re not super careful!
• Dim Sum: A variety of small plates like steamed buns, dumplings, and rice rolls, often served with tea, perfect for sharing with friends or family.

Where to Find NYC’s Best Dim Sum and Soup Dumplings

Here’s a list of some of the most popular and beloved spots for these dishes in New York City:

• Shanghai 21 (Chinatown): Known for its perfectly crafted soup dumplings, this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
• Dim Sum Go Go (Chinatown): Offers a modern take on dim sum, with a focus on fresh ingredients and vegetarian-friendly options. They sell lovely to-go boxes.
• Joe’s Shanghai (Chinatown and Midtown): Famous for its soup dumplings, this restaurant is a go-to for traditional flavors.
• Nom Wah Tea Parlor (Chinatown): One of NYC’s oldest dim sum houses, combining historic charm with delicious small plates.
• Tim Ho Wan (East Village and Hell’s Kitchen): A Michelin-starred chain known for its high-quality dim sum, including baked BBQ pork buns.
• RedFarm (West Village): Offers a fusion take on dim sum, including creative dishes like pastrami egg rolls.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional flavors or looking for creative twists, NYC’s Chinatown and beyond offer countless options to explore dim sum and soup dumplings in all their delicious glory.
Also on a budget!

Falafel and Shawarma: NYC’s Middle Eastern Magic

New York City’s vibrant food scene offers a global array of flavors, and falafel and shawarma have earned their place as beloved staples. 

These Middle Eastern classics, packed with bold spices and fresh ingredients, are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal while exploring the city.

In case you’re interested in exploring Greenwich Village, there’s a cultural food tour that also includes a stop where you can taste authentic NYC falafels.
Click here to check it out with all its food tastings!

What to Try

• Falafel: Crispy, golden chickpea fritters often served in a pita or on a platter with fresh vegetables, hummus, and tahini.
• Shawarma: Thinly sliced, spiced meat (typically chicken, lamb, or beef) cooked on a vertical spit, served in a wrap or as a plate with sides. While it apparently looks like kebab, it’s not the same!

Where to Find NYC’s Best Falafel and Shawarma

Here’s a list of some of the city’s top spots to enjoy these flavorful dishes:

• Mamoun’s Falafel (Greenwich Village and other locations): One of NYC’s oldest falafel joints, known for its authentic recipes and unbeatable prices.
• The Halal Guys (Midtown and multiple carts): Famous for their chicken and beef shawarma platters, as well as their perfectly spiced falafel.
• Taïm (Multiple Locations): A modern eatery offering fresh, flavorful falafel, including creative variations like harissa or roasted red pepper falafel.

Whether you’re craving a crispy falafel sandwich or a hearty shawarma wrap, NYC offers endless options to satisfy your taste buds with these Middle Eastern delights.

I love falafels, as I can also eat them on the go while I walk around New York.
Al, on the contrary, is a big fan of shawarma. While we can easily find kebab where we live, shawarma is quite rare so he indulges whenever we visit the Big Apple.

If you’re in doubt… just try both!

Ramen in NYC: Bowls of Comfort That Warm Your Soul

Is there anything better than a steaming bowl of ramen on a cold day—or really, any day? 

In New York City, ramen has evolved from a humble comfort food into an art form.
Whether you’re after a deeply rich tonkotsu (pork-based) broth, a light shoyu (soy sauce) option, or something creative, NYC has a ramen spot for every craving.

An interesting food tour explores ramen, as well as other dishes mentioned in this NYC food bucket list.
It covers SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown. Three of the best foodie spots in New York, if you ask me.
Check it out here if you’re interested in trying most of this list but you’re not sure where to find all the places I mentioned!

Why NYC Ramen is Special

Ramen in NYC reflects the city’s diversity and creativity.
Here, you’ll find everything from traditional Japanese bowls prepared with time-honored techniques to unique, fusion-inspired creations that push the boundaries of flavor. 

And while ramen is often thought of as a sit-down meal, you can also grab a quick, satisfying bowl on the go.
Well, at least that’s what the New Yorkers do.
To be fully honest, I’m still unable to eat ramen bowls on the go! I much prefer to sit down and enjoy the warm broth and the noodles.
To each his own, I guess!

What to Try

• Tonkotsu Ramen: Creamy, pork-based broth topped with chashu (braised pork belly), soft-boiled eggs, and springy noodles.
• Shoyu Ramen: A lighter broth seasoned with soy sauce, offering a balance of salty and umami flavors. Aldo usually goes for shoyu ramen because he says it’s just perfect, not too salty and not too greasy. 
• Miso Ramen: A rich, slightly sweet broth with a distinct nutty flavor, perfect for those looking for something hearty. My favorite!
• Vegan Ramen: Many spots cater to plant-based eaters with broths made from roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or sesame.

Where to Eat the Best Ramen in NYC

Here’s where you can slurp your way through the city’s finest bowls of ramen:

• Ippudo (East Village and Midtown): A pioneer of the NYC ramen scene, known for its creamy tonkotsu broth and perfectly cooked noodles.
• Totto Ramen (Midtown and Hell’s Kitchen): Famous for its chicken-based ramen, Totto offers rich, flavorful options in a cozy setting.
• Ivan Ramen (Lower East Side): Owned by Ivan Orkin, this spot blends Japanese tradition with NYC flair, offering both shio and shoyu ramen with creative toppings.
• Ramen Lab (Nolita): A rotating pop-up featuring ramen chefs from around the world, ensuring a new and exciting experience every time. We managed to catch it only once but we’ve been told that it pops a bit everywhere in Nolita!
• Ichiran (Brooklyn and Midtown): Perfect for solo diners, Ichiran specializes in tonkotsu ramen and offers private booths to savor your meal without distractions.
• E.A.K. Ramen (Greenwich Village): Focuses on Yokohama-style ramen with thick noodles and bold flavors, like their signature shoyu. This place made us feel like we were back on our Tokyo trip back in the day. We loved it!
• Ramen Misoya (East Village): A must-visit for miso ramen lovers, offering different types of miso broths to suit your taste.
• Jun-Men Ramen Bar (Chelsea): Known for its creative spins on ramen, including truffle oil and pork bone broths.

Ramen isn’t just food—it’s comfort, tradition, and creativity all rolled into one bowl.
So, grab your chopsticks and dig into this soulful dish at one of NYC’s incredible ramen spots. Whether you’re able to slurp ramen on the go or not!

Lobster Rolls in the City: When Coastal Charm Meets Urban Chic

Few dishes feel as indulgent and satisfying as a lobster roll, and while it might bring to mind summer days in coastal New England, New York City is no slouch when it comes to serving up this seafood favorite. From buttery, warm rolls to refreshing chilled versions, NYC has mastered the art of the lobster roll, making it a must-try dish in the city.

Those looking to splurge for a special occasion, be it an anniversary or a birthday, will love to know we also found lobster rolls at this buffet.
It’s a river cruise that can be scheduled for brunch, lunch or dinner (much more romantic). You’ll eat while enjoying the most beautiful sights in NYC.

As a personal note, let me just share that I loved cruising at night. The skyline and all the lights were breathtaking and super romantic! It’s also the perfect time to wear NYC matching outfits: your photos will be amazing!
Check it out by clicking here. 

What to Try

• Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll: Warm lobster tossed in melted butter, served on a toasted, buttery roll. While the chilled version is also good, me and Aldo absolutely fell in love with the Connecticut-style lobster roll. It’s divine!
• Maine-Style Lobster Roll: Chilled lobster mixed with a light mayo dressing, often topped with celery or herbs for crunch.

Why NYC Lobster Rolls Are Special

The magic of NYC is its ability to elevate every dish with its unique flair. 

Lobster rolls here often feature premium ingredients, artisanal buns, and even a creative twist or two. 

Whether you prefer them classic or modern, NYC lobster rolls are a decadent treat you just can’t miss. You’re going to fall in love with how they taste, just like us!

Where to Eat the Best Lobster Rolls in NYC

Here’s a list of the top places to dive into this seaside delicacy:

• Luke’s Lobster (Multiple Locations): Known for its sustainable seafood, this spot serves perfectly balanced Maine-style lobster rolls packed with sweet, fresh lobster.
• Red Hook Lobster Pound (Brooklyn and Smorgasburg): Offers both Connecticut and Maine-style rolls, with generous portions and a casual, beachy vibe.
• Ed’s Lobster Bar (SoHo): Famous for its buttery rolls and hearty portions of lobster, perfect for a comforting seafood fix.
• The Lobster Place (Chelsea Market): A seafood market with a counter that serves some of the freshest lobster rolls in the city. Not a budget option!
• Eventide Fenway Pop-Up at Union Square (Seasonal): While a seasonal addition, it offers a soft, pillowy roll stuffed with their signature brown butter lobster.

Whether you’re savoring lobster rolls in a bustling market or a refined seafood restaurant, NYC proves you don’t need the beach to enjoy this luxurious dish!
While it can be a bit expensive, it depends on where you eat it.
Yet there’s one thing I can promise: you won’t be disappointed!

Cronut Cravings: NYC’s Most Instagram-Worthy Treat

The Cronut, a genius hybrid of a croissant and a doughnut, is one of New York City’s most buzzworthy desserts.
Its flaky layers, deep-fried exterior, and creative fillings make it a treat worth hunting down.
You’ve probably seen it everywhere on Instagram or TikTok, as they consider it a “viral dessert”!

Born in NYC and now beloved worldwide, this dessert combines indulgence with creativity, proving once again that New Yorkers know how to elevate a classic.

Not many food tours are “modern” enough to include cronuts.
Yet we found a very nice one that includes a walking tour of SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown. With a side of cronut!
Check it out by clicking here. 

What Makes the Cronut So Special?

It’s all about the layers—flaky, buttery dough reminiscent of a croissant meets the crisp, golden-fried texture of a doughnut. 

Add a luscious cream filling and a dusting of sugar, and you’ve got a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. 

What sets the Cronut apart is the innovation and the artistry behind its creation, making it more than just a dessert—it’s an experience.

If you’re curious, try the Nutella Cronut. You’ll thank me later!

Where to Try the Best Cronuts in NYC

While many bakeries have their spin on the Cronut, these spots are where you’ll find the crème de la crème:

• Dominique Ansel Bakery (SoHo): The birthplace of the original Cronut, created by pastry chef Dominique Ansel. Each month features a new, unique flavor. Be prepared to line up early, as these sell out fast and the line is quite long!
• Supermoon Bakehouse (Lower East Side): Known for creative takes on pastries, their “croissant-doughnut hybrids” come with wild fillings and Instagram-worthy designs.
• Daily Provisions (Union Square and Beyond): While they don’t serve traditional Cronuts, their crullers and creative doughnut-like pastries are worth trying if you’re on a pastry adventure.
• Michaeli Bakery (Lower East Side): Bakes inventive, flaky pastries inspired by the Cronut’s legacy, paired with a modern twist.
• Dough (Multiple Locations): While primarily famous for its gourmet doughnuts, Dough occasionally experiments with croissant-doughnut fusions that rival the original.

If you’re a dessert lover, the Cronut is a bucket-list bite that captures the innovation and indulgence NYC is known for. There’s nothing like cronut anywhere else in the world.

Treat yourself to this sweet marvel—you deserve it!

Sweet Tooth Paradise: NYC’s Local Dessert Treasures

New York City isn’t just about bagels and pizza—it’s also a paradise for sweet tooths. 

From neighborhood bakeries crafting timeless classics to innovative dessert spots redefining indulgence, NYC’s dessert scene is as diverse as the city itself. 

Whether you’re into cookies, pies, or something uniquely New York, there’s always a treat waiting to wow your taste buds.

Not many know that there’s a treasure trove of dessert places between Chelsea Market and the High Line.
Yet there’s a new food tour exploring these two places that includes tons of tastings, both savory and sweet. They’ll even bring you to the place that invented Oreos!
Check it out by clicking here.
And make sure you’re hungry when you start the tour because you’ll eat a lot!

What to Try

• Black & White Cookie: Soft, cakey cookies frosted with chocolate on one half and vanilla on the other—a nostalgic NYC classic.
• New York Cheesecake: While we’ve covered this earlier, it’s worth mentioning that each bakery has its spin, making every bite a new experience.
• Italian Pastries: Cannoli, sfogliatella, and rainbow cookies from NYC’s Italian bakeries are a must-try. Many places in Brooklyn bake cannoli and sfogliatella that will make you feel like you’re actually in Italy. Yes, Italian-approved!
• Egg Cream: Not quite a dessert, but this fizzy chocolate milk soda is a throwback to NYC soda fountains of the past.
• Banana Pudding: Magnificent layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and cookies—NYC bakeries have turned this Southern favorite into an art.

Where to Find NYC’s Best Local Sweets

Here’s a guide to some of the most iconic places to satisfy your sweet cravings:

• Levain Bakery (Upper West Side and Multiple Locations): Famous for its gooey, oversized cookies, especially the chocolate chip walnut. There isn’t one trip to New York that I remember when we haven’t stopped here to buy a ton of cookies. I miss Levain Bakery whenever I get back to Italy: make sure you go because it’s amazing!
• Junior’s (Downtown Brooklyn and Times Square): Renowned for its rich, creamy New York cheesecake and equally indulgent desserts.
• Ferrara Bakery & Cafe (Little Italy): Open since 1892, Ferrara is the go-to for Italian classics like cannoli, tiramisu, and rainbow cookies.
• Magnolia Bakery (West Village and Beyond): The original location gained fame for its banana pudding, but their cupcakes are equally delightful. We also found it at Rockefeller Center!
• Breads Bakery (Union Square): Their chocolate babka is legendary, with perfectly braided layers of sweet, chocolaty goodness.
• Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop (Greenpoint, Brooklyn): This old-school donut shop is a local treasure for perfectly glazed and frosted treats.
• Veniero’s Pasticceria (East Village): A historic Italian bakery offering some of the best cannoli and sfogliatella in the city.
• Egg Cream at Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop (Flatiron): A classic spot to try this fizzy, nostalgic NYC beverage. Beware: it can be crowded on weekends!

NYC’s dessert scene is a journey through history and creativity, offering everything from traditional sweets to cutting-edge confections. 

Each bakery and dessert shop tells its own story—one bite at a time.
Besides… there’s always room for one more dessert, am I right?

Conclusion: A City That Feeds the Soul

New York City truly has a way of leaving you spellbound, and its food scene is no exception. From the perfect foldable pizza slice to flaky cronuts and buttery lobster rolls, this city serves up dishes that aren’t just meals.
They’re stories, experiences, and little pieces of its vibrant culture. 

Writing this article felt like revisiting a city I’m lucky enough to call a second home.
With family in Brooklyn, I’ve spent countless days exploring NYC, indulging in these incredible eats, and uncovering hidden gems that make it such a special place.
What can I say… I love good food!

Whether you’re here for the food or the festivities, there’s so much to dive into. 

If you’re planning a winter trip, don’t miss my guide to The Best Christmas Hotels in NYC or What to See in NYC for Christmas in 4 Days. 

If your budget is tight, I’ve also rounded up The Best Tips to Visit NYC for the Holidays on a Budget to help you save without missing the magic. And I even added quite a lot of Christmas souvenir ideas to my guide: what to buy in NYC on a budget. 

Plus, my NYC Taylor Swift Playlist and Iconic Spots is perfect for adding a little Swiftie sparkle to your journey. And, if you ask me, it’s especially great if you’re planning to visit New York City in springtime.

And when the city dazzles you with its twinkling holiday lights, snap those perfect moments with my guide to The Best Christmas Photo Spots in NYC, or make packing a breeze with What to Pack to Visit NYC in Winter.

So, what are you waiting for?
Grab a bite, take a walk, and fall in love with the city that never sleeps—one dish at a time! 

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